Abstract:Scaffold is an important component in tissue engineering application by providing substrate and support for tissue development. We have recently developed a novel biodegradable polyelectrolyte fibrous bioconstruct system where protein, growth factors, drugs and cells can be incorporated into the fiber, while growth factors and adhesion molecules can be immobilized on the fiber surface. Such a bioconstruct system would allow development of tissue with multiple cell types and/or structures. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) have the potential to differentiate into lineages of mesenchymal tissue (1). To explore the potential of this bioconstruct system, hMSC were incorporated into fibers composed of alginate and chitin. The proliferation, osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of the entrapped hMSC were examined in this study.